5Q:Claire Beevers,CO-Founder/Owner SMITH & BRIT

233 West 19th Street New York

I met the ladies of Smith & Brit one warm afternoon as I strolled through the Manhattan neighborhood of Chelsea. I am a fan and a supporter of indie brands and indie stores. Claire Beevers, co-owner of Smith & Brit has cultivate a selection of very glamorous and highly effective selection of indie beauty products. The brands were all new to me, which was very exciting. CLEANSE by LAUREN NAPIER is now sold at Smith &Brit - I asked Claire to join me for my 5Q: Female Founders Q&A. Enjoy this great advice from one of the most charming ladies you'll ever meet!

1. Looking back on your first job, what skill did you use that you still use today?

My first job was when I was 14 and I worked every Saturday at small bakery. I would go in early help to make pies and decorate the cream cakes and doughnuts. That same level of creativity has manifested quite nicely as now I co-own a beauty and wellness boutique and love making the shop look inviting by designing all of the window displays and organizing the products.

2. Was there a defining moment that made you start your business?

When I first met my business partner, Kristyn Smith, we had this “a-ha” moment when we realized that we wanted to take our collective knowledge and passion and turn it into something bigger.

3. What was he first step you took to launch your brand?

Having collectively been in the beauty industry for 40 years, Kristyn and I went out for dinner and got all of our ideas together. We then pinned them on Pinterest and from our joint inspiration, we narrowed our ideas down into a concept to then create a business plan.

4. What is the greatest lesson learned in your first year in business?

Patience, patience, patience! From having construction take longer then expected to orders being late, when being a business owner, you sometimes have to take a big breath, surrender the control, and know that eventually everything will come together as my ambition got me this far.

5. What is your best piece of advice for your fellow Female Founder?

Take the leap and believe whole heartedly that you can do it because you can.